Arranging Original Compositions for Ensemble

Jeffrey Flynn
jeffflynn@charter.net
Bartlett High School

TI:ME Technology Areas Addressed:

Electronic Musical Instruments
Notation

Level:

High School

Class:

Music Theory

Equipment:

MIDI keyboards
PrintMusic 2004

Duration:

45 Minutes

Prior Knowledge and Skills:

1) Students have a working knowledge of PrintMusic notation software (step entry and speedy note entry)
2)Students have original 16-32 bar compositions in four parts based on diatonic melodies and harmonies arranged for piano(composed in previous classes)

MENC Standards Addressed:

MENC 4: Composing and Arranging Music within specified guidelines.
MENC 5: Reading and notating music.

Materials:

1) Original four part compositions

2) Transposition and range chart for woodwind and brass instruments

Objectives:

1) Students will be able to arrange their own four part compositions for mixed ensembles and enter them onto the computer using speedy note entry

2) Students will understand and execute proper transpositions and range limitations for woodwind and brass instruments

Procedures:

1) Review transposition rules for woodwind and brass instruments

2) Review range limitations for the same instruments

3) Have students arrange their compositions for any mixed ensemble (four voices) including at least 2 transposing instruments

4) Have students enter their compositions on the computer at concert pitch using speedy note entry

5) Students will transpose on paper for each instrument before transposing on the computer

6) Have students transpose on the computer to check for errors

Evaluation:

1) Students’ evaluation will be based on accurate entry of their composition onto the computer and accurate written transpositions